Manchester United centre-back Phil Jones has strong interest from Bordeaux for January transfer
According to French news outlet L’Equipe (h/t Fabrizio Romano), Manchester United centre-back Phil Jones is subjected to strong interest from Bordeaux for a potential transfer this January. He had made his return to the first team after almost two long years and could be on his way out to restart his stagnated career.
The French side is hoping to reach an agreement with Man United before the transfer window closes this month. Eric Bailly was also an option for them, but he is expected to stay at Old Trafford for the rest of this season. The Ligue 1 club has identified Jones as a target following that update and has expressed a great desire to sign him.
Both clubs are currently engaged in negotiations to discuss a potential move in this winter transfer window. However, Ralf Rangnick will have the final say on the matter, so the 29-year-old’s future prospects will depend on what the boss thinks ahead of the deadline date.
Jones to leave?
The Englishman made his return during the 1-0 loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. However, contrary to the disappointing result, he had a good performance and was arguably the best player in the defence on that day. That was further backed by the reaction from the fans who applauded him, which left him in tears.
The Red Devils defender has proven that he can still play at the top level, so it would be a great gesture on our part if we help him get regular minutes. Even with the display against Wolves, he has not played since then, so it is not like we are desperate for his services at this instant.
Moreover, we have a healthy number of options with Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, and Eric Bailly on the list. So we are covered in that spot, plus the two at the back system makes it even safer for us to allow the England international to move to France.
This interest would also be one of the few opportunities to cash in on the Man United star. It would be very reactionary to think that he has a long future with us following the display against Bruno Lage’s side. However, it is up to Rangnick now, so it remains to be seen what decision he takes before the window closes.
If the German boss is against this transfer, it is understandable since he might think that it would be risky to trim down the defence. After all, we are playing in three different competitions, so there would be situations when the full depth will be utilised. Only time will give us an answer, so let’s wait and see how the negotiations develop.
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But with Bailly staying, we have four senior defenders vying for starts in that area. It would be harsh if we keep Jones and he ends up just warming the bench for us and him playing for Bordeaux, even though they are 17th and fighting relegation, could be the boost he needs to reignite his career.
